Wagner Group/ Africa Corps

Why in news ? Moscow’s announcement to enhance its military ties in Africa comes amid reports that the Wagner Group, a controversial Russian paramilitary organization, has reportedly exited Mali. The group’s operations in Mali have been handed over to the Africa Corps, directly overseen by Russia’s Defense Ministry.

About Wagner Group:

The Wagner Group is a private military company (PMC) with close ties to the Russian government, known for its controversial operations in conflict zones worldwide. Its activities, often described as shadowy and opaque, have raised global concerns over human rights violations and geopolitical manipulation.

Formation and Background

• Founded: 2014, reportedly by Dmitry Utkin, a former Russian military officer and GRU (Russian military intelligence) operative.
• Naming: Named after Utkin’s call sign, “Wagner,” which is believed to be a tribute to the German composer Richard Wagner.
• Leadership: Until recently, Yevgeny Prigozhin, a Russian oligarch close to President Vladimir Putin, was heavily linked to Wagner. Prigozhin played a key role in financing and expanding the group.

Areas of Operation:

The Wagner Group has operated in several regions, often serving as a tool for advancing Russia’s strategic interests:

Ukraine:

• Involved in the annexation of Crimea (2014) and ongoing conflicts in Eastern Ukraine.
• Played a key role in the Russia-Ukraine war until Prigozhin’s rebellion in 2023.

Syria:

1. • Supported President Bashar al-Assad’s regime during the Syrian Civil War.
   • Provided ground support for Russia’s military operations and secured oil and gas assets.

Africa:

1. • Operated in countries like Mali, Sudan, Libya, and the Central African Republic.

About Africa Corps:

• The Africa Corps is a relatively new entity reportedly under the direct supervision of the Russian Ministry of Defense. It is seen as part of Moscow’s strategy to maintain and expand its military and geopolitical influence across Africa, particularly following changes in the operations of the Wagner Group.

Key Details:

Formation and Leadership:

1. • Formed as a state-controlled alternative to the Wagner Group after the latter’s internal crisis and the demise of its leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin.
   • Managed directly by Russia’s Defense Ministry, ensuring tighter government oversight and integration with official military operations.